Security at First Coast bases deemed inadequate

Are the First Coast naval bases safe? A scathing report released by the Department of Defense inspector general raises serious concerns about security access associated with contractors at navy installations, according to our news partner The Florida Times-Union.

The final report was dated Monday, the very same day 12 people were murdered at the Navy Yard in D.C., the inspector general recommending RAPIDGate be replaced because of serious flaws.

It's the same security system used at Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Jacksonville and Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base.

The RAPIDGate credential, according to the report, provided contractors with unescorted, recurring installation access.

The inspector general tied the problems it cited with an effort to reduce costs.

As a result, the report states 52 convicted felons received routine, unauthorized access to the installation, placing military personnel and civilians at increased risk. In some cases, workers were allowed access to the bases for up to 28 days before their background checks were completed, as long as they registered at the company's kiosk, the T-U reports.